NYC Drone Permit Physical Notice Posting Within 100 Feet (2026)

Beyond notifying the Community Board, an NYC operator whose drone captures imagery must physically post notices near the flight site so nearby residents and businesses are aware. This on-the-ground notice requirement under 38 RCNY § 24-05(e)(2) is precise about distance, timing, content, and even how you attach the sign. This guide covers every detail.

When Physical Notices Are Required

The posting requirement applies whenever an unmanned aircraft on your permitted operation will capture or transmit still images, video, or audio. It is a companion to the Community Board notification — both are triggered by imagery capture, and both must be complete no later than 48 hours before flight.

Where and When to Post

What the Notice Must Say

Each physical notice must advise businesses and residents that an unmanned aircraft capturing or transmitting still images, video, or audio will be used in the area, and must include:

• The take-off and landing site
• The date and time of take-off and of landing
• The expected duration of the operation
• The name and telephone number of a representative of the applicant

The content mirrors the Community Board notice so the public receives consistent information whether they read the posted sign or contact the board.

The Tree-Posting Rule

One detail trips up operators every time: if you post on a tree, you must use elastic bands or string, never tape. Tape can damage bark, so the rule specifically bans it on trees. You may still use other secure methods on poles and City-owned structures, but plan to bring elastic bands or string for any tree posting.

Don't Forget Removal

The obligation does not end when you land. The permittee must remove all signs — including any tape used elsewhere — upon completion of the permit. Leaving notices up after the operation is itself a failure to comply with a permit condition. Build sign removal into your post-flight checklist alongside your incident-reporting review.

A Simple 48-Hour Routine

For any imaging flight, treat the 48-hour mark as a fixed checkpoint: send the Community Board notice, post the physical notices within 100 feet using compliant attachment methods, and confirm both are done. Then, after the operation, return to remove every sign. Handling this as a repeatable routine keeps you compliant and protects your eligibility for future permits.